Hold ladder test

A hold ladder test verifies the strength and secure attachment of the fixed vertical and inclined access ladders in cargo holds and tanks, since a failed rung or bracket in a deep space is a fall hazard during loading, cleaning, and survey. The check combines visual inspection of welds, brackets, and corrosion wastage with a load or pull test on rungs and platforms to the design loading. Access arrangements in holds and tanks must meet SOLAS II-1 Reg. 3-6 and the IMO technical provisions for means of access, which set rung spacing, platform intervals, and rest landings. Wasted or detached ladders are renewed; the means of access is part of the close-up survey route.